by Gary Davies

Created on: September 23, 2010

When Tony Blair first stepped into number 10 Downing Street in 1997 after Labour's comprehensive win over the Conservatives, a wave of euphoria and optimism swept across Britain. Here was a man who effortlessly oozed intelligence, charm and charisma, and who spoke with a positivity that was seemingly infectious. Now his reign is over, how will he be remembered?

There were several key policies, issues and events during Blair's leadership that will be remembered more than most: conflicts in Kosovo and Afghanistan, the economy, anti-terrorism legislation, I.D. cards, the London bombings. These all stand out, with some key moments bringing the population together, while others did more to polarise the nation. There is however one issue that dwarfs all others.

Quite obviously Tony Blair's single biggest legacy will be his decision to invade Iraq. It feels almost like a cliche to say it now but that doesn't make it any less true. Before the invasion took place it was estimated that at least 750,000 people (although some estimate the figure to be greatly higher) crowded London's streets to protest and show their opposition to a military offensive against Iraq. Although there was much disapproval from the British public at this time, Blair still seemed to have the support of many people who put their trust in him, reasoning that the intelligence reports that he was privy to must justify a military attack. The world in general deemed it an illegal war but many in Britain kept their faith in Blair.

The war began, the occupation followed and no weapons of mass destruction were found. As time went on more and more coalition troops and Iraqi civilians lost their lives. Gradually support for the war diminished but Blair held strong never faltering in his belief that war was the right decision. Saddam Hussein was caught and eventually hung. Most people agreed that with Saddam out of the picture there was at least something positive to take from destruction, although, many felt uncomfortable with his execution.

The lack of after-war planning soon became apparent; another strike against Blair and his leadership credentials. Even people with an anti-war stance wanted to believe that something good and lasting could be salvaged from the mess. But, the years ticked by and civil war raged on, with civilians making up the majority of casualties.

Now only 50,000 American troops remain in Iraq and they are there purely to help train the Iraqi security forces. The country is still a mess and stability looks like it is a long way off. But yet, to this day, Tony Blair continues to defend his decision to go to war. On reflection he probably made good and bad decisions throughout his reign, but they will barely get a mention as the years go by. For the majority of people across the globe, the name Tony Blair will be synonymous with the ill-considered and illegal war in Iraq.

I have to add, with this taken into account, was it really appropriate to appoint Tony Blair peace envoy to the Middle East?

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